Under embargo until conclusion of the sentence hearing for Kai Pennell | Statements from family of Duane Keen and Senior Investigating Officer

Under embargo until conclusion of the sentence hearing for Kai Pennell. 

Please note - sentence will need to be added into first line of the family's quote (bold). 

The family of Duane Keen said: "Today a life sentence of x years has been awarded to Kai Pennell for taking the life of my son Duane. A loving father, grandfather, brother, and uncle.

"Although justice has been given, the life sentence will never be truly enough, as we the family have lost our loved one who will never have his life to live and we now have to live the rest of our lives without him.

"We the family would like to thank the police, CPS and all the team that have worked tirelessly on this case and have supported us throughout the past several months."

Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Jitka Tomkova-Griffiths said: “Kai Pennell killed Duane Keen in a jealousy-fuelled and violent attack.

“Taking a knife from his own property implied that he intended to cause serious harm when confronting Duane in the early hours of that morning. His actions had devastating consequences and Duane’s death has impacted the lives of his family, loved ones, friends and community.

“I’d like to pay tribute to the friends and family who have had to come to terms with Duane’s death and shown great strength throughout this difficult process.

“I know today’s sentencing will never bring him back; however, I hope this outcome brings some consolation and closure for them.”